Saints not surprised to be back in contention, but appreciate tough stretch ahead

Defensive end Cam Jordan says the Saints may have surprised others but not themselves by rattling off five victories in six games to get back to .500 after an 0-4 start.

Jordan says that with Drew Brees at quarterback and talent across the roster, the Saints expected to overcome early-season struggles.

New Orleans is 5-5, one game behind three teams tied for the last NFC wild-card spot.

The Saints have six games to make up remaining ground separating them from their fourth straight postseason. But what's left of their schedule is tough, with the next three games against current division leaders: San Francisco, Atlanta and the New York Giants.

Assistant head coach Joe Vitt warns that the Saints have "miles to go."